The Life and Opinions of D. B. Couper, Cocktail Enthusiast

New York City

New York City bartenders have been leading the country when it comes to going beyond both tequila and mezcal. Most notable is the rise of sotol, a spirit distilled from the Dasylirion wheeleri succulent (which isn’t technically an agave, but is a close relative). Other agave spirits taking root in New York bars include bacanora and raicilla.

Below are suggestions for some of the most interesting margarita alternatives worth seeking out in New York.